Breast Reduction Costs in Australia: What to Expect in 2025 and 2026

For individuals considering Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) Surgery, understanding the financial side is an important part of the decision-making process.

Below, we explain the key factors that influence Breast Reduction costs in Australia in 2025 and 2026, including why quotes vary based on anatomy and the specifics of the procedure.  We also cover how Medicare item numbers and private health insurance may apply, along with a breakdown of what is typically included in the overall cost.

While individual fees differ based on personal circumstances and surgical requirements, this guide provides a clear starting point for anyone wanting to understand what to expect.

What Influences Breast Reduction Costs?

The cost of Breast Reduction surgery varies between patients because every procedure is tailored to the individual’s anatomy, goals and needs. Factors that can influence pricing include:

• Surgical technique: Differences in breast size, tissue composition and a patient’s desired results all influence the surgical technique, complexity and time spent in surgery.
• Specifics: Whether the procedure is being performed on its own or in conjunction with other procedures also impacts the cost. Some procedures may only be a slight reduction, while others may be more significant and incorporate other procedures.
• Complexity: Pre-existing asymmetry, tuberous breasts, previous breast surgery, or medical considerations may increase surgical time.
• Hospital Fees: Fees differ between hospitals. The length of stay also impacts the cost. Some patients may be discharged the day of surgery, while others will need to stay overnight for observation.
• Anaesthetic requirements: The amount of time spent in surgery directly impacts anaesthetist fees.
• Surgeon’s experience and qualifications: A surgeon’s experience and qualifications also impact the cost of surgery.
• Pre-operative tests: Depending on medical history, some patients may need blood tests, imaging, or consultations with other health professionals prior to surgery. These additional appointments may carry separate costs.
• Post-operative care: Follow-up appointments, dressings and support garments recommended after surgery can be included in the quote or billed separately.
• Medicare and private health insurance eligibility: If a Medicare item number applies and a patient has appropriate private health insurance coverage, some costs may be reduced. If no cover applies, the patient will pay the full hospital and surgical fees out of pocket.

Will Medicare cover my Breast Reduction?

Some patients may be eligible for a Medicare rebate if strict criteria are met. In order to be eligible for a Medicare item number the procedure must be deemed medically necessary. 

Eligibility is assessed when a patient is experiencing physical symptoms related to large, heavy breasts, such as persistent neck, shoulder or back discomfort, skin irritation beneath the breast fold, or difficulty with physical activity. Documentation of these symptoms and their impact on daily life is needed to determine suitability.

If the Medicare item number applies, it can help cover some medical costs associated with the procedure. If the procedure does not meet Medicare’s medical criteria, the surgery is considered cosmetic and must be paid out of pocket.

Will Private Health Insurance Cover My Breast Reduction?

Private health insurance may contribute to some hospital-related costs if the procedure is deemed medically necessary and an eligible Medicare item number applies. When this is the case, your fund may cover part of the hospital fees, depending on your level of cover and any waiting periods.

Coverage varies between insurers and policies. Patients should contact their private health fund directly to confirm what is included, whether their policy covers the relevant item number and what out of pocket expenses should be expected.

What’s Included in a Breast Reduction Surgery Quote?

A comprehensive quote will usually outline:

• Surgeon fees
• Anaesthetist fees
• Hospital fees
• Medicare or private health rebates (if applicable)
• Post-operative appointments
• Post-surgical garments

Transparent quoting helps you understand the expected Breast Reduction cost Australia patients may face based on their circumstances.

Cost Expectations for 2025 and 2026

While exact figures cannot be given, patients can expect pricing to align with the factors above. Changes in hospital fees, insurance rebates and clinical guidelines may influence costs over the coming years.

For those searching for a Breast Reduction surgeon in Melbourne or wanting a tailored quote, a consultation is the most reliable step toward understanding your individual circumstances.